Spike In Domestic Violence Cases During AFL And NRL Grand Finals

As fans gear up for the AFL and NRL grand finals, experts have sounded the alarm about a potential rise in domestic and family violence over the coming weeks. 

La Trobe University Associate Professor Kirsty Forsdike, a specialist in gender-based violence, has highlighted the urgent need for further research. 

Study Links Major Sports Events to Increased Rates of Domestic Violence

Associate Professor Forsdike’s 2022 study, “Major sports events and domestic violence: A systematic review”,  focused on the increased rates of domestic violence associated with events such as public holidays, seasonal changes, disasters, and economic crises.

The study’s abstract highlights that sports is often viewed through a gendered lens, “exemplifying hegemonic masculinity and associated violence, with the link between sporting culture and violence against women well recognised.”

The reviewed studies indicate an association between major sports events and increased reporting of domestic violence. 

“What was really interesting to us was it really depended on the type of sport … if it was a major final, if it was a really big derby match that was super important, or well-known culturally to be super important, so for example, Celtics and Rangers in Scotland, if they played each other the rates [of domestic violence] went up”, Dr Forsdike told the ABC. 

She pointed out that research from the United States has demonstrated a rise in domestic violence rates during playoff games and public holidays.

While research in Australia is limited, Dr Forsdike Dr. Forsdike emphasised that it still suggests possible links between major sporting events and increases in domestic violence incidents.

State of Origin Raises Alarms Over Increased Domestic Violence 

In New South Wales, police data spanning six years reveals that domestic violence assaults surged by over 40% following State of Origin rugby league games compared to non-State of Origin nights.

The 2018 study conducted by the Centre for Alcohol Policy Research (CAPR), the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, and La Trobe University revealed that State of Origin Wednesdays experienced 11.2 more domestic assaults, 17.6 additional non-domestic assaults, and a total of 28.7 more assaults compared to regular Wednesdays. This resulted in a 40.7% increase in domestic assaults, a 71.8% rise in non-domestic assaults, and a 55.2% overall increase in assaults.

Additionally, gambling and financial stress are also linked to the rise and escalation of domestic violence. 

Government commits $4.4 Billion to End Violence Against Women and Children

Earlier this month, the Commonwealth Government committed an additional $4.4 billion in to deliver a new National Access to Justice Partnership under the National Plan to End Violence against Women and Children 2022-2032.

This funding builds on $3.4 billion invested since 2022 across 85 initiatives. Key components of the new funding include:

• $351 million over five years for a renewed National Partnership Agreement on Family, Domestic, and Sexual Violence Responses, to be matched by states and territories.
• $80 million to enhance trauma-informed support for children affected by violence.
• Development of national standards for men’s behaviour change programs.

Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth emphasised the government’s commitment to making the safety of women and children a national priority. 

“We know we cannot address this issue alone – it requires all governments, Commonwealth, state and territory – to work together along with businesses, communities and individuals.

“We all have a role to play, and these additional investments are about continuing to build on our significant efforts to date.”

The AFL grand final will be held today, starting at 2:30 PM, followed by the NRL grand final next Sunday, October 6th.

Support Services for Those Experiencing Abuse

If you or someone you know is facing sexual abuse or family violence, please reach out to the following helplines:

• National Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Counselling Service: 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732)
• Link2Home Emergency Accommodation: 1800 152 152
• Rainbow Sexual, Domestic and Family Violence Helpline (LGBTIQA+ specific): 1800 497 212
• Family Violence Crisis and Support Service: 1800 608 122
• For immediate support, contact Lifeline at 13 11 14.
• Men who are seeking support to change their behaviours, particularly those facing anger or relationship challenges can reach out to the Men’s Referral Service at 1300 766 491